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Becoming a Police Officer

March 27, 2012

Every day more than 59,000 police officers around the state work to ensure residents’ safety. To join their ranks, you need to be a U.S. citizen who’s at least 18 years old, and you must hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. While your record may show minor traffic infractions, it should be clean of felonies or repeated misdemeanors.

Although the police academy you choose to attend may require more of you, these are the general steps you’ll take to certify as a police officer:

Complete a background investigation, which includes a drug test, and pay the $245 associated fee.

Fill out the Pre-Service Application for Certification. This includes gathering copies of your fingerprints and records of your most recent physical exam. If you need help understanding the application, call academy staff.

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